Spent as long as possible in the campsite enjoying the weather, surroundings and peace - a great place to camp.  Then did a 1.5 mile hike up a nearby hill with lookouts.  Saw a snake crossing the path - don't think it was a rattlesnake but gave it a wide birth nonetheless.  Then drove towards Needles along loads of straight roads and through very dry countryside including salt pans.  Stopped on Route 66 to look at an old diner/motel called Roy's which has fallen into ruin thanks to the Interstate to the North.  Got to Needles which is a kind of nothing town on the Arizona border, but it was 33C when we got there. Having researched Needles, it turns out that it regularly shares USA highest temperatures with Death Valley and has a record high of 51C. Guess that's why everyone is indoors!